Rising 81 storeys above the Champ de Mars, the Eiffel Tower was built to form the gateway to the 1889 World’s Fair, held to celebrate the 100 anniversary of the French Revolution.

The Eiffel Tower from the Champ de Mars

Amazingly, it was originally only intended to remain in place for 20 years. Yet, over a century past its ‘best by’ date, the Eiffel Tower remains one of the word’s iconic structures. It’s angular silhouette continues to dominate the skyline of Paris.

The Eiffel Tower from Montmartre

Almost 7 million visitors ascend at least part way up the tower each year. This makes it the most popular tourist attraction that charges an entrance fee on the planet.

From across the Seine

With some friends at the Trocadéro

The Eiffel Tower comprises three visitor levels, the uppermost of which is 906 feet above the ground. And despite not being too keen on heights, how could I not go to the top?!

Rich’s Dad, Bryn, at the top

I don’t mind telling you, the elevators made me feel a little nervous. Particularly the ones that take you up the angled legs of the tower as far as level two.

Underneath the Eiffel Tower

Going up!

But boy were the views from the top worth it! Even on the chilly, hazy day we were there.

We were in Paris about this time last year, but didn’t go up the Tower because lacked the patience to line up for 2/3 hours (is there every a time we you don’t have to?) – so thanks for sharing the views we missed.

What fabulous views from the top! It’s like you only need to go to the one place to get great views of every famous landmark in Paris! Wonderful images – thank you for sharing them and pointing out all the sights of Paris too 🙂